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Alcohol Addiction · What We Treat
Alcohol Addiction, Effects & Treatment.
Alcohol use disorder is a treatable medical condition — not a moral failing. Learn the signs, effects, and withdrawal risks, and the treatment path available at Faith Recovery Center.
- Physician-led detox
- Evidence-based therapy
- Dual-diagnosis care
- Most PPO insurance accepted
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(844) 598-5573Understanding alcohol addiction
What is alcohol addiction?
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic medical condition marked by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite negative effects on health, relationships, or daily responsibilities. It exists on a spectrum from mild to severe and is recognized as a diagnosable, treatable medical condition — not a moral failing.
Because alcohol is legal and socially accepted, alcohol use disorder often goes unrecognized for years. Many people don't seek help until the condition has already caused significant harm to their health, career, or relationships.
Adults in the U.S. are estimated to have alcohol use disorder each year, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).
Is alcohol addictive?
Yes. Repeated alcohol use changes the brain's reward and stress systems, leading to tolerance, physical dependence, and persistent cravings. Genetics, mental health, environment, and age of first use all influence individual risk. Addiction is a treatable medical condition, and most people see significant improvement with appropriate care.
Recognizing the signs
Signs of alcohol misuse.
These signs can appear gradually. Noticing several together — especially over time — may indicate it's time for a professional evaluation.
Behavioral Signs
- Drinking more or longer than intended
- Repeated failed attempts to cut back or stop
- Continuing to drink despite relationship or work problems
- Giving up activities once enjoyed in favor of drinking
- Drinking in physically hazardous situations, like before driving
Physical Signs
- Building tolerance — needing more to feel the same effect
- Withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, like tremors or sweating
- Neglecting personal hygiene or appearance
- Unexplained injuries, frequent illness, or GI issues
- Noticeable changes in sleep or appetite
Psychological Signs
- Strong cravings or preoccupation with drinking
- Using alcohol to cope with stress, anxiety, or sadness
- Irritability or mood swings when not drinking
- Minimizing or denying the extent of drinking
- Increased secrecy around drinking habits
What it does
How alcohol affects the body.
Effects range from immediate impairment to lasting organ and brain changes with continued heavy use.
Short-Term Effects
Minutes to hours
- Impaired judgment and coordination
- Slowed reaction time
- Slurred speech and blurred vision
- Nausea and vomiting
- Memory blackouts at high doses
- Risk of alcohol poisoning
Long-Term Effects
Months to years
- Liver damage, including fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis
- Increased risk of heart disease and stroke
- Pancreatitis and digestive problems
- Weakened immune system
- Memory and cognitive decline
- Increased risk of several cancers
Withdrawal timeline
How long does alcohol withdrawal last?
Alcohol withdrawal can range from mild discomfort to a medical emergency. Severity depends on how much and how long someone has been drinking.
Early symptoms
Hours 6–12
Anxiety, sweating, tremors, headache, and nausea begin as blood alcohol levels drop.
Peak risk window
Hours 24–72
Seizures and, in severe cases, delirium tremens (DTs) — a life-threatening condition — are most likely during this period.
Stabilization
Days 4–7
Most physical symptoms ease with proper medical management. Energy and appetite begin to return.
Extended recovery
Weeks 2+
Lingering anxiety, sleep disruption, and mood changes can continue for weeks and are addressed through ongoing clinical care.
Never attempt unsupervised withdrawal. Alcohol is one of the few substances where withdrawal can be fatal due to seizure risk and delirium tremens. Call our admissions team 24/7 at (844) 598-5573.
Inside the process
What the alcohol detox process looks like.
Alcohol withdrawal has its own clinical playbook — distinct from other substances. Here's what's actually happening behind the scenes as your body clears alcohol under medical supervision.
Clinical note 01 / 05
CIWA-Ar symptom scoring
Every few hours, nurses score your withdrawal severity using the CIWA-Ar scale — tracking tremors, sweating, anxiety, and agitation to determine exactly how much medication you need at that moment.
Levels of care
A clear path to treatment.
Faith Recovery Center provides every level of care for alcohol use disorder inside one private Beverly Hills manor.
Medical Detox
Physician-supervised withdrawal management to safely clear alcohol from the body.
Residential Treatment
Full-time therapy and clinical support to address the root causes of alcohol use.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
FDA-approved medications that reduce cravings and support long-term sobriety.
Outpatient & Aftercare
Flexible step-down care and long-term relapse prevention planning.
When to get help
Signs it's time to reach out.
If alcohol use is affecting your health, relationships, or ability to meet responsibilities, professional support can help — regardless of how long the drinking has continued.
Call now — (844) 598-5573You've tried to cut back and haven't been able to
Drinking is affecting work, school, or relationships
You experience withdrawal symptoms between drinks
Loved ones have expressed concern about your drinking
You've had legal or safety issues related to alcohol
You drink to cope with stress, anxiety, or sadness
FAQ
Common questions about alcohol addiction.
Can alcohol use disorder be cured?
Alcohol use disorder is a chronic condition that is managed through treatment, much like other chronic health conditions. Many people achieve and maintain long-term recovery with appropriate care, ongoing support, and lifestyle changes.
Is alcohol withdrawal dangerous?
Yes. Alcohol is one of the few substances where withdrawal can be fatal due to seizure risk and delirium tremens (DTs). Anyone with significant alcohol dependence should seek medically supervised detox.
How much drinking is considered alcohol use disorder?
Diagnosis is based on a set of behavioral and physical criteria, not a specific number of drinks. A clinical assessment is the most reliable way to determine if someone meets criteria for alcohol use disorder.
Does insurance cover alcohol addiction treatment?
Yes — alcohol use disorder treatment is considered an essential health benefit under federal law, and most PPO plans provide coverage. We verify your specific benefits before admission at no cost.
What is the first step in getting help?
Most people start with a confidential conversation with our admissions team, who can recommend the right level of care — typically medical detox if there is significant physical dependence.
Can family members get support too?
Yes. Alcohol use disorder affects the whole family, and Faith Recovery Center offers family education and therapy sessions throughout treatment.
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Jason Giles, M.D.
Board-Certified Addiction Medicine Physician, Faith Recovery Center
Last updated June 2026
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Benefits and outcomes vary by individual.
Related
Other substances we treat.
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